tragic flaw

[ traj-ik flaw ]

noun

, Literature.

1. the character defect that causes the downfall of the protagonist of a tragedy; hamartia.

tragic flaw

noun

1. a failing of character in the hero of a tragedy that brings about his downfall

Word History and Origins

Origin of tragic flaw¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Depending on the outcome of November’s election after his belated decision to withdraw, his lifelong stubbornness may prove to have been his tragic flaw.

From Los Angeles Times

History reflects humankind’s most tragic flaw: Humans are incapable of protecting themselves from themselves.

From Washington Post

He’s a man constantly overheated, which is what makes him tick, and is his tragic flaw.

From New York Times

Like, “I just love too hard” or, “My tragic flaw is that I care too much!”

From Los Angeles Times

“This is the fall of somebody from a high position. There’s some tragic flaw there. And I’ve also been thinking of the Garden of Eden. Maybe the apple is presidential politics.”

From Washington Post